Wednesday, November 25, 2009

Last night my virus ridden body was jerked sharply into action by a leaflet put through the door.

It was about the "Fresh Expression" work the Diocese of Winchester is doing in the area. It would seem that these leaflets were put through the door of every house in the diocese.

The irony. The diocese are cutting the budget across the board due to their huge deficit. The Canon Missioner listed on the back of the leaflet will be made redundant if the latest budget is passed.

What really got me is that the community at the Chaplaincy at the University of Southampton is a "Fresh Expression" by their criteria! From their website:

"Fresh Expressions encourages new forms of church for a fast changing world, working with Christians from a variety of denominations and traditions..

As we encourage new forms of church for those who are not already members of any church, we also want to consolidate all that has been achieved in terms of major projects and policy changes at national level."

"Fresh expressions reach out to a changing society. Lots of changes have created a new cultural mood, to which fresh expressions try to respond. Among these changes:

people have been turning away from external rules, duties and obligations. They are more into relationships and experiences;

networks feature more strongly in their lives than traditional institutions;

diversity has shot up the agenda. People prefer personalised approaches to one-size-fits-all."

From all this we learn that the church is encouraging communities that don't fit our modern view of traditional church. These movements should be about personal relationships, developing from listening to people and engaging with their culture. They should lead to the formation of a worshipping community and help people to be good disciples.

You would think therefore, that the church would be encouraging the work of the chaplaincy at the University of Southampton. It's not a traditional style church. It's a community of students lead by the chaplains. The way the community is organised and run has changed over time from listening carefully to the students who are regular members and from observing the wider student culture at the University of Southampton. There is a large RC worshipping community, and a growing protestant one. Chaplaincy community members are encouraged to love their fellow students in the way that the community loves them. The Chaplaincy is missional in that it serves the students and staff of the University whether they are of faith or not.

Let us consider some case studies:

My own chaplaincy story sees me meeting the Chaplain in the pub at a karaoke evening in the students union, having read his blog and received his e-newsletters. This ticks the engaging in student culture box and use of modern technology to reach people. Then I went for a cup of tea at the Chaplaincy having been personally invited. So relational and personal. I was invited back again and again, and gradually became part of the community. As I felt more comfortable there I started going to the wednesday communion service and I started acting to show the radical love and hospitality I had recieved to other people as best I could. This included volunteering to help at Chaplaincy Events.

The Big Breakfast is a freshers welcome event which has been run for the last few years and developed from a meeting of the Chaplaincy Student Council where the goal was to create an event that would raise the profile of the Chaplaincy and create opportunities for the Chaplaincy to engage with new students and reconnect with existing staff and students. A team of student volunteers cooked breakfast for hundreds of students at the princely sum of £1 each. All the money went to local charities. New students are usually hungry, sometimes hungover and maybe homesick. A hearty breakfast and a cup of tea provided exactly what they needed. Each time this event has been a success, with all the visitors now knowing where the Chaplaincy is on campus, and seeing a handful of regulars added to the Chaplaincy community each time.

The recent Chaplaincy alumni like myself can tell you that it's a very different place from when we were there, which shows the Chaplaincy adjusting and changing as the community has changed. New things since I left university include a regular cake day where the never ending supply of tea is supplemented with volunteer baked cake. This can be eaten by anyone who happens to be in the building and again has produced opportunities for a conversation with people.

The biggest thing that sticks in my mind is that the community empowers it's members to do the nitty gritty work of loving the world. One time, all the chaplains were out and a distraught student came in looking to talk to one of them about her exam problems. Rather than just telling her to come back later, the students hanging out in the building, sat her down, made her a cup of tea and talked to her until she calmed down, and with her permission prayed for her. Or the time one of the community started having a panic attack in the pub when some of the chaplaincy students were at the pub quiz. They helped the student calm his breathing and escorted him to a safe place, all the while reassuring him and praying with him.

Last night my virus ridden body was jerked sharply into action by a leaflet put through the door.

It was about the "Fresh Expression" work the Diocese of Winchester is doing in the area. It would seem that these leaflets were put through the door of every house in the diocese.

The irony. The diocese are cutting the budget across the board due to their huge deficit. The Canon Missioner listed on the back of the leaflet will be made redundant if the latest budget is passed.

What really got me is that the community at the Chaplaincy at the University of Southampton is a "Fresh Expression" by their criteria! From their website:

"Fresh Expressions encourages new forms of church for a fast changing world, working with Christians from a variety of denominations and traditions..

As we encourage new forms of church for those who are not already members of any church, we also want to consolidate all that has been achieved in terms of major projects and policy changes at national level."

"Fresh expressions reach out to a changing society. Lots of changes have created a new cultural mood, to which fresh expressions try to respond. Among these changes:

people have been turning away from external rules, duties and obligations. They are more into relationships and experiences;

networks feature more strongly in their lives than traditional institutions;

diversity has shot up the agenda. People prefer personalised approaches to one-size-fits-all."

From all this we learn that the church is encouraging communities that don't fit our modern view of traditional church. These movements should be about personal relationships, developing from listening to people and engaging with their culture. They should lead to the formation of a worshipping community and help people to be good disciples.

You would think therefore, that the church would be encouraging the work of the chaplaincy at the University of Southampton. It's not a traditional style church. It's a community of students lead by the chaplains. The way the community is organised and run has changed over time from listening carefully to the students who are regular members and from observing the wider student culture at the University of Southampton. There is a large RC worshipping community, and a growing protestant one. Chaplaincy community members are encouraged to love their fellow students in the way that the community loves them. The Chaplaincy is missional in that it serves the students and staff of the University whether they are of faith or not.

Let us consider some case studies:

My own chaplaincy story sees me meeting the Chaplain in the pub at a karaoke evening in the students union, having read his blog and received his e-newsletters. This ticks the engaging in student culture box and use of modern technology to reach people. Then I went for a cup of tea at the Chaplaincy having been personally invited. So relational and personal. I was invited back again and again, and gradually became part of the community. As I felt more comfortable there I started going to the wednesday communion service and I started acting to show the radical love and hospitality I had recieved to other people as best I could. This included volunteering to help at Chaplaincy Events.

The Big Breakfast is a freshers welcome event which has been run for the last few years and developed from a meeting of the Chaplaincy Student Council where the goal was to create an event that would raise the profile of the Chaplaincy and create opportunities for the Chaplaincy to engage with new students and reconnect with existing staff and students. A team of student volunteers cooked breakfast for hundreds of students at the princely sum of ??1 each. All the money went to local charities. New students are usually hungry, sometimes hungover and maybe homesick. A hearty breakfast and a cup of tea provided?? exactly what they needed. Each time this event has been a success, with all the visitors now knowing where the Chaplaincy is on campus, and seeing a handful of regulars added to the Chaplaincy community each time.

The recent Chaplaincy alumni like myself can tell you that it's a very different place from when we were there, which shows the Chaplaincy adjusting and changing as the community has changed. New things since I left university include a regular cake day where the never ending supply of tea is supplemented with volunteer baked cake. This can be eaten by anyone who happens to be in the building and again has produced opportunities for a conversation with people.

The biggest thing that sticks in my mind is that the community empowers it's members to do the nitty gritty work of loving the world. One time, all the chaplains were out and a distraught student came in looking to talk to one of them about her exam problems. Rather than just telling her to come back later, the students hanging out in the building, sat her down, made her a cup of tea and talked to her until she calmed down, and with her permission prayed for her. Or the time one of the community started having a panic attack in the pub when some of the chaplaincy students were at the pub quiz. They helped the student calm his breathing and escorted him to a safe place, all the while reassuring him and praying with him.??

Thursday, November 19, 2009

The chaplaincy is like a glorified sixth form common room on campus where people of all faiths and none hang out together. It's the only working example of a Christian community I've come across. Gay, Straight, Jewish, Christian, Atheist and Pagan organise social events, support each other and live love throughout campus. When I say anyone is welcome, I mean anyone is welcome. Which is rare in a religious organisation.

When I was really depressed after a serious of personal crisis type events the Chaplain ended up inviting me to the chaplaincy for a cup of coffee after a chance meeting in the Union pub. I have debated politics, philosophy, religion, ethics and Star Wars long into the night.

There I found this amazing group of people who loved me and looked after me and helped me. One of the Chaplaincy Groupies as they're known sat up late with me into the night till 4am when I was going a bit manic. Others helped me deal with my demons about church leftover from an awful relationship by walking out of services with me, talking with me about why I couldn't face church. People cooked meals and brought flowers. Invited me out dancing and to the pub.

And when I became an active member of the community I did the same. It's the reality of Christian living. It's something I would want everyone to experience.

The chaplaincy raises money for local charities, has cooked breakfast for £1 for anyone who wants to come in and eat it during freshers week feeding hundreds of homesick new and old students. Simon, the Anglican chaplain has sat talking with me for three hours and tested me on my revision. I have met friends there that will last me a life time. I met my future husband there. I learnt the importance of social action there, about the Student Christian Movement.

The idea of this place not being there for other students horrifies me. All the people who don't feel like they fit in anywhere else seem to end up at Chaplaincy where they are welcomed in with open arms and included. People like me.

The chaplaincy is like a glorified sixth form common room on campus where people of all faiths and none hang out together. It's the only working example of a Christian community I've come across. Gay, Straight, Jewish, Christian, Atheist and Pagan organise social events, support each other and live love throughout campus. When I say anyone is welcome, I mean anyone is welcome. Which is rare in a religious organisation.

When I was really depressed after a serious of personal crisis type events the Chaplain ended up inviting me to the chaplaincy for a cup of coffee after a chance meeting in the Union pub. I have debated politics, philosophy, religion, ethics and Star Wars long into the night.

There I found this amazing group of people who loved me and looked after me and helped me. One of the Chaplaincy Groupies as they're known sat up late with me into the night till 4am when I was going a bit manic. Others helped me deal with my demons about church leftover from an awful relationship by walking out of services with me, talking with me about why I couldn't face church. People cooked meals and brought flowers. Invited me out dancing and to the pub.

And when I became an active member of the community I did the same. It's the reality of Christian living. It's something I would want everyone to experience.

The chaplaincy raises money for local charities, has cooked breakfast for £1 for anyone who wants to come in and eat it during freshers week feeding hundreds of homesick new and old students. Simon, the Anglican chaplain has sat talking with me for three hours and tested me on my revision. I have met friends there that will last me a life time. I met my future husband there. I learnt the importance of social action there, about the Student Christian Movement.

The idea of this place not being there for other students horrifies me. All the people who don't feel like they fit in anywhere else seem to end up at Chaplaincy where they are welcomed in with open arms and included. People like me.

Petition Against the Closing of the Chaplaincy at the University of Southampton and the removal of the Anglican Chaplain

If the latest Budget is passed by the Dioceasan Synod (the council that runs the CofE in the Winchester area) all ministry that is not Parish ministry will be cut to help decrease the deficit. This will see the following posts being abolished:

1. Chaplain to the Deaf2. Chaplain to the University of Southampton3. Chaplain to Southampton Solent University4. Chaplain to FE Colleges in Bournemouth and Poole.

We would like to express our objection to this motion in the budget. Whilst we cannot comment on the ministry of 1, 3 and 4, cutting the Chaplin to the University of Southampton will do the following:

1. Make the Reverend Simon Stevens redundant and homeless with a young family of a wife and three small children. We consider this a highly un-Christian thing for the church to do, andindeed unacceptable by any moral compass.2. Make the University of Southampton, a prestigious and large university one of two universities in the country without an Anglican Chaplain(the other being Southampton Solent university.3. Have serious ramifications on the provision of any Chaplaincy on the University of Southampton grounds as the Anglican community provides the largest part of the financial backing.4. If Chaplaincy leaves the University, important links and relationships will be lost. It would be hard for the Chaplaincy to return to the University at this level.

The work of the Chaplain and the Chaplaincy are inseparable. The Chaplain has saved many lives directly and indirectly, has brought many people to new, renewed or strengthened faith though his work, and the chaplaincy work, which has come about because of his ministry. There have been thousands of students on campus today touched by the work of the Chaplain and/or Chaplaincy, who otherwise would have no contact with the church, and may have had no where to go for support. There are many more Alumni who have know this, and we would hope, many future students who could be similarly touched

The end of the Ecumenical Chaplaincy at the University of Southampton would see the end of a vibrant and growing ministry amongst students at the University. The following groups would be without a suitable venue for various activities:The Christian UnionThe Student Christian MovementThe Jewish SocietyThe Catholic Society

The Chaplaincy is used by a large community of students of all faiths and none as a safe space on campus and as a a venue for social events. On any given day during term time, students can be found working and socialising the Chaplaincy or using the services of the Chaplains such as bible studies and confidential conversations on spiritual and emotional matters. Vulnerable students are often referred to the Chaplaincy as the Chaplaincy community is a welcoming space for them. In recent years user groups have had to find alternative venues for large meetings as the community has grown through the work of Rev. Stevens and the other Chaplains. Perhaps more prevision for the Chaplaincy should be being sought not less!

We recognise that in these tough times a compromise needs to be met. Suggestions includemerging the Southampton and Solent Chaplains Rolesmaking the Role of Chaplain part - timemerging the currently vacant Free Church Chaplain role with the Anglican role to make a single Protestant Chaplain.

Please sign your full name and leave your email address if you would like to express your support for the Chaplaincy at the University of Southampton.

Petition Against the Closing of the Chaplaincy at the University of Southampton and the removal of the Anglican Chaplain

If the latest Budget is passed by the Dioceasan Synod (the council that runs the CofE in the Winchester area) all ministry that is not Parish ministry will be cut to help decrease the deficit. This will see the following posts being abolished:

1. Chaplain to the Deaf2. Chaplain to the University of Southampton3. Chaplain to Southampton Solent University4. Chaplain to FE Colleges in Bournemouth and Poole.

We would like to express our objection to this motion in the budget. Whilst we cannot comment on the ministry of 1, 3 and 4, cutting the Chaplin to the University of Southampton will do the following:

1. Make the Reverend Simon Stevens redundant and homeless with a young family of a wife and three small children. We consider this a highly un-Christian thing for the church to do, andindeed unacceptable by any moral compass.2. Make the University of Southampton, a prestigious and large university one of two universities in the country without an Anglican Chaplain(the other being Southampton Solent university.3. Have serious ramifications on the provision of any Chaplaincy on the University of Southampton grounds as the Anglican community provides the largest part of the financial backing.4. If Chaplaincy leaves the University, important links and relationships will be lost. It would be hard for the Chaplaincy to return to the University at this level.

The work of the Chaplain and the Chaplaincy are inseparable. The Chaplain has saved many lives directly and indirectly, has brought many people to new, renewed or strengthened faith though his work, and the chaplaincy work, which has come about because of his ministry. There have been thousands of students on campus today touched by the work of the Chaplain and/or Chaplaincy, who otherwise would have no contact with the church, and may have had no where to go for support. There are many more Alumni who have know this, and we would hope, many future students who could be similarly touched

The end of the Ecumenical Chaplaincy at the University of Southampton would see the end of a vibrant and growing ministry amongst students at the University. The following groups would be without a suitable venue for various activities:The Christian UnionThe Student Christian MovementThe Jewish SocietyThe Catholic Society

The Chaplaincy is used by a large community of students of all faiths and none as a safe space on campus and as a a venue for social events. On any given day during term time, students can be found working and socialising the Chaplaincy or using the services of the Chaplains such as bible studies and confidential conversations on spiritual and emotional matters. Vulnerable students are often referred to the Chaplaincy as the Chaplaincy community is a welcoming space for them. In recent years user groups have had to find alternative venues for large meetings as the community has grown through the work of Rev. Stevens and the other Chaplains. Perhaps more prevision for the Chaplaincy should be being sought not less!

We recognise that in these tough times a compromise needs to be met. Suggestions includemerging the Southampton and Solent Chaplains Rolesmaking the Role of Chaplain part - timemerging the currently vacant Free Church Chaplain role with the Anglican role to make a single Protestant Chaplain.

Please sign your full name and leave your email address if you would like to express your support for the Chaplaincy at the University of Southampton.

Monday, November 16, 2009

I have attacked the SCM marketing strategy document with relish this evening. I hope I've covered all bases and given the General Council lots of things to do.

Unfortunately, I can't go to the SCM gathering in Wrexham as it clashes with my Dad's 50th birthday party and I have to go be useful at home. Not that I don't want to go to Dad's party. I'm doing the music and people are coming from all over. It's just a shame it clashes. So someone else will be presenting my document, and Tom will be working at the Gathering that weekend.

It does mean I have the day off on Friday which I sorely need. I shall sleep in the car on the way to Westbury and try not to think too much.

Today has been ok, work was manic and I enjoyed Jive this evening as it helped me destress a bit. We had some exciting news this evening. We might be getting a new car, and putting me on the insurance, even with my provisional license, brought the price down considerably! Ahh the joys of having breasts!

Now I am relaxing eating pomegranate seeds that Tom, the kindly slave that he is peeled and processed for me whilst I worked away at my strategy document. He really is rather lovely.

I have attacked the SCM marketing strategy document with relish this evening. I hope I've covered all bases and given the General Council lots of things to do.

Unfortunately, I can't go to the SCM gathering in Wrexham as it clashes with my Dad's 50th birthday party and I have to go be useful at home. Not that I don't want to go to Dad's party. I'm doing the music and people are coming from all over. It's just a shame it clashes. So someone else will be presenting my document, and Tom will be working at the Gathering that weekend.

It does mean I have the day off on Friday which I sorely need. I shall sleep in the car on the way to Westbury and try not to think too much.

Today has been ok, work was manic and I enjoyed Jive this evening as it helped me destress a bit. We had some exciting news this evening. We might be getting a new car, and putting me on the insurance, even with my provisional license, brought the price down considerably! Ahh the joys of having breasts!

Now I am relaxing eating pomegranate seeds that Tom, the kindly slave that he is peeled and processed for me whilst I worked away at my strategy document. He really is rather lovely.

Sunday, November 15, 2009

Friday I rushed around getting to leave work early to steward at the Church Open evening. My T-shirts were a success, and my banner looked good billowing in the wind like a sail.

The redevelopment of the church is beautiful. It's so light and airy, with such useful spaces. The worship space is very flexible and you could even have a service in the round!

Our wedding photographer, Suz came to look at the space and show me some of her work. She kindly took some pics of the building and one of me and Tom posing where we will be saying our vows in our everyday clothes. I think it will be a nice shot as it's a marriage in the making in a building site.

We helped out at church till 8:30, then rushed home, put on our glad rags and walked up the road to catch the bus into town for some dancing. We wanted change for the bus, so I broke up my tenner by buying chocolate and flapjacks in Somerfield which we nibbled on in the queue.

John, Emma, Marmers and JClaw met us at the Wine Bar in Bedford Place and we spent a fun hour or so drinking spiced rum and ginger ale and chatting away. I was quite surprised at how empty the Wine Bar was given it was a Friday night, but that meant it was perfect for us! A couple of drinks later and we were in the queue for Reflex, the 80s night club. Coats were checked and dancing to the best cheesy music ensued for many hours. I thoroughly enjoyed it. I've not been out dancing for a long time so it was a pleasant change from the normal routine. We walked home in the wind and rain and sat chatting till 3am. Tom and John even made us a curry!

Saturday morning saw me trundling up the road to see Thirza, and Christmas shopping with Emma in town. I found some purple flowers on alice bands in Primark for £1 and snapped up 4 of those for bridesmaids headdresses. I whipped up a test one tonight and it looks quite good, with some crystal beads, green ribbon roses and peacock feathers.

Today I had a wonderful sing at church. It helped that we sang songs I knew like Crown Him With Many Crowns. Singing makes me feel like I'm rising out of myself a little bit, soaring on the music!

Friday I rushed around getting to leave work early to steward at the Church Open evening. My T-shirts were a success, and my banner looked good billowing in the wind like a sail.

The redevelopment of the church is beautiful. It's so light and airy, with such useful spaces. The worship space is very flexible and you could even have a service in the round!

Our wedding photographer, Suz came to look at the space and show me some of her work. She kindly took some pics of the building and one of me and Tom posing where we will be saying our vows in our everyday clothes. I think it will be a nice shot as it's a marriage in the making in a building site.

We helped out at church till 8:30, then rushed home, put on our glad rags and walked up the road to catch the bus into town for some dancing. We wanted change for the bus, so I broke up my tenner by buying chocolate and flapjacks in Somerfield which we nibbled on in the queue.

John, Emma, Marmers and JClaw met us at the Wine Bar in Bedford Place and we spent a fun hour or so drinking spiced rum and ginger ale and chatting away. I was quite surprised at how empty the Wine Bar was given it was a Friday night, but that meant it was perfect for us! A couple of drinks later and we were in the queue for Reflex, the 80s night club. Coats were checked and dancing to the best cheesy music ensued for many hours. I thoroughly enjoyed it. I've not been out dancing for a long time so it was a pleasant change from the normal routine. We walked home in the wind and rain and sat chatting till 3am. Tom and John even made us a curry!

Saturday morning saw me trundling up the road to see Thirza, and Christmas shopping with Emma in town. I found some purple flowers on alice bands in Primark for £1 and snapped up 4 of those for bridesmaids headdresses. I whipped up a test one tonight and it looks quite good, with some crystal beads, green ribbon roses and peacock feathers.

Today I had a wonderful sing at church. It helped that we sang songs I knew like Crown Him With Many Crowns. Singing makes me feel like I'm rising out of myself a little bit, soaring on the music!

Thursday, November 12, 2009

Right, so now I've missed a day I don't feel so guilty for my half hearted posts.

Yesterday I left a poorly Tom in asleep with some mystery bug and dragged myself into work. I don't know if it's seasonal affective disorder or just the blahs, but I have been finding getting up and out of bed increasingly difficult. The cycle to work leaves be achey all over and at the end of the work day I am drained.

Maybe I need to eat more healthily, or exercise more or something. I'm not really sure what to do. I don't eat badly, and I cycle at least 30 mins most days, go to jive lessons and to the gym once a week. I don't seem to have time to do anymore exercise. I've been trying to do my pilates dvd when I can, but it always comes back to time. I don't think I've found a form of exercise I actually like besides dancing. I don't have enough room in my living room to dance for my exercise, and I don't have a enough free time to go to anymore dance lessons. Ideas anyone?

After work I rushed home to complete the two remaining stewards t-shirts for Friday, and then a much recovered Tom and I went to SCM to hear Nick Hutchinson, the youth worker from Highfield speak about the Israel Palestine conflict from a historical perspective. He did so in a very balanced way, and had some good suggestions on how as Christians we can help support the everyday people on the streets of Jerusalem such as supporting the work of http://www.holylandtrust.org/

After a week of church preparations, next week will see me putting together a marketing plan for SCM national, a letter to invite organisations to the SCM national conference and putting music on the laptop for my dad's 50th birthday. How did my dad get to be 50?

Right, so now I've missed a day I don't feel so guilty for my half hearted posts.

Yesterday I left a poorly Tom in asleep with some mystery bug and dragged myself into work. I don't know if it's seasonal affective disorder or just the blahs, but I have been finding getting up and out of bed increasingly difficult. The cycle to work leaves be achey all over and at the end of the work day I am drained.

Maybe I need to eat more healthily, or exercise more or something. I'm not really sure what to do. I don't eat badly, and I cycle at least 30 mins most days, go to jive lessons and to the gym once a week. I don't seem to have time to do anymore exercise. I've been trying to do my pilates dvd when I can, but it always comes back to time. I don't think I've found a form of exercise I actually like besides dancing. I don't have enough room in my living room to dance for my exercise, and I don't have a enough free time to go to anymore dance lessons. Ideas anyone?

After work I rushed home to complete the two remaining stewards t-shirts for Friday, and then a much recovered Tom and I went to SCM to hear Nick Hutchinson, the youth worker from Highfield speak about the Israel Palestine conflict from a historical perspective. He did so in a very balanced way, and had some good suggestions on how as Christians we can help support the everyday people on the streets of Jerusalem such as supporting the work of http://www.holylandtrust.org/

After a week of church preparations, next week will see me putting together a marketing plan for SCM national, a letter to invite organisations to the SCM national conference and putting music on the laptop for my dad's 50th birthday. How did my dad get to be 50?

Tuesday, November 10, 2009

Lula came over last night to keep me company whilst Tom worked late and she kindly helped me by cutting out letters to applique onto the Stewards T- shirts. I have sewed two and I am on my third out of eight. It's quite hard work, but I'm really enjoying it. I find the chug chug chug of the sewing machine extremely comforting.

It's a bit like the chug chug chug of keys on keyboards that soothes my ears at work.

This evening we're going to talk to the restaurant where we're having the meal part of our wedding reception which is very exciting. Then I shall be going to play hairdressers with Thirza, and then home to my sewing machine.

I always find it interesting how I must cram every hour of my day with stuff. I hate quiet dead periods.

I enjoyed my short stroll at lunchtime today. Peering through the windows of the Varsity that's being refurbished I saw a soft muted palette of work men in white overalls caught in a still life of eating their lunch and chatting. It was like a modern day Vermeer painting.

Lula came over last night to keep me company whilst Tom worked late and she kindly helped me by cutting out letters to applique onto the Stewards T- shirts. I have sewed two and I am on my third out of eight. It's quite hard work, but I'm really enjoying it. I find the chug chug chug of the sewing machine extremely comforting.

It's a bit like the chug chug chug of keys on keyboards that soothes my ears at work.

This evening we're going to talk to the restaurant where we're having the meal part of our wedding reception which is very exciting. Then I shall be going to play hairdressers with Thirza, and then home to my sewing machine.

I always find it interesting how I must cram every hour of my day with stuff. I hate quiet dead periods.

I enjoyed my short stroll at lunchtime today. Peering through the windows of the Varsity that's being refurbished I saw a soft muted palette of work men in white overalls caught in a still life of eating their lunch and chatting. It was like a modern day Vermeer painting.

Friday, November 06, 2009

There will be radio slience for Days 7 and 8 as I am off to London with Andy, Todd, John and Tom for one of our semi annual adventures.

We shall eat out this evening I expect once we have all arrived. If it is early enough I shall try and convince the chaps to come to http://www.completehero.com/ as Nathan Fillion is speaking and I want to see him!

There will be radio slience for Days 7 and 8 as I am off to London with Andy, Todd, John and Tom for one of our semi annual adventures.

We shall eat out this evening I expect once we have all arrived. If it is early enough I shall try and convince the chaps to come to http://www.completehero.com/ as Nathan Fillion is speaking and I want to see him!

Thursday, November 05, 2009

Our parish isn't very cash rich, but the people are still extremely generous. In a bid to raise money people have been donating things for the parish ebay account. We've had rice cookers, steppers, china, dolls and more.

But there's this book. Oh my the book. When I was handed it, I actually was lost for words.

A plaine and familiar exposition of the Ten commandements With a methodicall short catechisme, containing briefly the principall grounds of Christian religion by John Dod

The publishing date is 1625. I'm not convinced that it's actually 400 odd years old, it could be a later re print as another work seems to be bound with it. The endpapers seem to have been used to practice handwriting and to test pens. Basically, it's fantastic. And I'm at a loss at what to do with it. I know there are book sellers who specialise in rare and antique books. I shall I have to investigate one.

Our parish isn't very cash rich, but the people are still extremely generous. In a bid to raise money people have been donating things for the parish ebay account. We've had rice cookers, steppers, china, dolls and more.

But there's this book. Oh my the book. When I was handed it, I actually was lost for words.??

A plaine and familiar exposition of the Ten commandements ??With a methodicall short catechisme, containing briefly the principall grounds of Christian religion by John Dod

The publishing date is 1625. I'm not convinced that it's actually 400 odd years old, it could be a later re print as another work seems to be bound with it. The endpapers seem to have been used to practice handwriting and to test pens. Basically, it's fantastic. And I'm at a loss at what to do with it. I know there are book sellers who specialise in rare and antique books. I shall I have to investigate one.

I am helping plan the open days for the Church of the Ascension, Bitterne Park building project. The church is converting and extending their existing building to make better use of the space and provide meeting rooms and a cafe for the local community. As we're nearly there with the building work, we're inviting people to come and have a look.

I'm looking after making a display on the Parish ebay account, the name the cafe competion, the steward's shirts, and a giant sign for the out side. After the meeting tonight, I got home and started sewing my sign. Appliquing on large letter in random pink and red fabrics to a bed sheet is tiring work. I had to round it up before I'd finished as it was bedtime, but I should finish it this evening. Then I need to find a marker pen that doesn't bleed so I can write the other information on it, having exhausted my scrap fabric supply.

I also need to create some logo designs for the new centre. It's all very exciting. I love being involved in a big project!

Wednesday, November 04, 2009

I am helping plan the open days for the Church of the Ascension, Bitterne Park building project. The church is converting and extending their existing building to make better use of the space and provide meeting rooms and a cafe for the local community. As we're nearly there with the building work, we're inviting people to come and have a look.

I'm looking after making a display on the Parish ebay account, the name the cafe competion, the steward's shirts, and a giant sign for the out side. After the meeting tonight, I got home and started sewing my sign. Appliquing on large letter in random pink and red fabrics to a bed sheet is tiring work. I had to round it up before I'd finished as it was bedtime, but I should finish it this evening. Then I need to find a marker pen that doesn't bleed so I can write the other information on it, having exhausted my scrap fabric supply.

I also need to create some logo designs for the new centre. It's all very exciting. I love being involved in a big project!

Tuesday, November 03, 2009

But the evening was joyous. I helped one of Tom's friends from college choose what style wedding veil she wanted.

And then I made it!

We went for a drop veil with a scalloped edge. Not too full on the head and with a comb. She's going to choose some beads to go in the scallops and then some to be scattered over the veil itself. She will make a lovely bride. I made a pretty box for her to keep it in as well as part of my trying to finish every job to the highest standard.

I used some of the offcuts to make a tulle bow for the box, and that got me inspired. I made a tiny tulle bow to go on a hair pin and I madea birdcage veil with roses at the back. If anyone is interested in the bird cage veil let me know!

I may even start taking bespoke orders. It was sooooooo much fun. I really need to invest in some sewing scissors to make sure I can cut as cleanly as possible.

Monday, November 02, 2009

One of my favourite lines of liturgy in the service used at my church is "may God hallow the small things" I think this is said after the offering is give but I may be wrong.

When researching for my dissertation I spent some time considering women's work in society in ancient times. One of the more charming ideas I came across are prayers and meditations on relating to the daily work of women. These effectively turned everyday tasks into worship.

Whether or not you are relgious, I think it is good to consider the work you do from housework to your career. It is good to work mindfully considering your actions and words. I think it helps me feel fulfilled in my life to think of even the littlest things being worth while and special.

I am someone who is quite slapdash with the finish of things. I'll knit somthing carefully, then sew it up quickly because I want it finished. I'll cook nice food but serve it sloppily because I'm hungry. Obviously, this doesn't lead to the best results, mearly good enough results. So carefully considering what I do as I do it helps me see my task to it's conclusion

One of my favourite lines of liturgy in the service used at my church is "may God hallow the small things" I think this is said after the offering is give but I may be wrong.

When researching for my dissertation I spent some time considering women's work in society in ancient times. One of the more charming ideas I came across are prayers and meditations on relating to the daily work of women. These effectively turned everyday tasks into worship.

Whether or not you are relgious, I think it is good to consider the work you do from housework to your career. It is good to work mindfully considering your actions and words. I think it helps me feel fulfilled in my life to think of even the littlest things being worth while and special.

I am someone who is quite slapdash with the finish of things. I'll knit somthing carefully, then sew it up quickly because I want it finished. I'll cook nice food but serve it sloppily because I'm hungry. Obviously, this doesn't lead to the best results, mearly good enough results. So carefully considering what I do as I do it helps me see my task to it's conclusion

Sunday, November 01, 2009

The first of November saw me tidying up party food and drinks at the Chaplaincy dressed at Kaylee from Firefly. I'd had the most charming afternoon sewing two pairs of combat trousers in to a khaki jumpsuit, finding an purple patterned top and twirling my hair into two bedknobs. I'd also made pumpkin rock cakes and pumpkin bread for the SCM pumkpin party.

Alas I didn't win the bake off, but I enjoyed dressing Tom as Book and Lula as Inara from Firefly and watching fun films with the SCM crowd.

Today, Tom and I went to church at St. Christophers in Thornhill, the parish with which the Southampton SCM has a link. The church family at St. Christophers really feels like a family, everyone knowing everyone else's name and people coming to the service especially to see us again and catch up since our last visit. We had a lovely lunch with the vicar and his wife and the curate and discussed everything from the X Factor to Nuclear Physics.

I found it especially interesting talking to Anne about being a vicar's wife. Tom might be going to be a vicar, so I may end up a vicar's wife. She said that you have to throw yourself into it wholeheartedly to get the most of it, and it is hard having a husband who cannot commit to any family event. Nevertheless the benefits are enormous and it is extremely rewarding. It's something that fills me slightly with dread, as if I am honest with myself, I am quite selfish. I like to have time alone to do me things, and I like to spend time with Tom alone at least once a week. Still, nothing is certain yet, so I should have plenty of time to get used to the idea if it is going to happen.

The first of November saw me tidying up party food and drinks at the Chaplaincy dressed at Kaylee from Firefly. I'd had the most charming afternoon sewing two pairs of combat trousers in to a khaki jumpsuit, finding an purple patterned top and twirling my hair into two bedknobs. I'd also made pumpkin rock cakes and pumpkin bread for the SCM pumkpin party.

Alas I didn't win the bake off, but I enjoyed dressing Tom as Book and Lula as Inara from Firefly and watching fun films with the SCM crowd.

Today, Tom and I went to church at St. Christophers in Thornhill, the parish with which the Southampton SCM has a link. The church family at St. Christophers really feels like a family, everyone knowing everyone else's name and people coming to the service especially to see us again and catch up since our last visit. We had a lovely lunch with the vicar and his wife and the curate and discussed everything from the X Factor to Nuclear Physics.

I found it especially interesting talking to Anne about being a vicar's wife. Tom might be going to be a vicar, so I may end up a vicar's wife. She said that you have to throw yourself into it wholeheartedly to get the most of it, and it is hard having a husband who cannot commit to any family event. Nevertheless the benefits are enormous and it is extremely rewarding. It's something that fills me slightly with dread, as if I am honest with myself, I am quite selfish. I like to have time alone to do me things, and I like to spend time with Tom alone at least once a week. Still, nothing is certain yet, so I should have plenty of time to get used to the idea if it is going to happen.